Yeast Infections

A yeast infection occurs when the normal levels of acid and yeast in the vagina are out of balance and cause a very uncomfortable, but not serious, condition called a yeast infection. If you have never been diagnosed or treated by a physician for a yeast infection and have some of the symptoms, you should see your physician first for accurate diagnosis and treatment, because trying to treat yourself may make symptoms worse.

How do I know for sure if I have a yeast infection?

Your health care provider will use a simple, painless swab to remove discharge or vaginal secretions and examine the sample through a microscope in the office. Usually, upon a simple examination of the vagina, a physician can diagnose a yeast infection. In rare cases, the culture may be sent to a lab.

How are yeast infections treated?

A yeast infection can be treated by creams that can be applied vaginally. Monistat, Gyne-Lotrimin, or prescription Terazol or Vagistat provide immediate relief of burning on the vulva and should completely clear up the infection in a week. Medications taken orally, such as prescription Diflucan, Sporanox, Nystatin, and Nizoral, clear up the infection within a few days but provide slower relief of burning and itching. Ask your doctor about using cream topically to relieve itching and burning as well as a one-dose oral medication to clear it up as quickly as possible.

How can I prevent yeast infections from occurring?

Yeast infections can usually be avoided by doing the following:

Avoid tight-fitting, synthetic fiber clothing, leotards, or girdles.

Wear cotton panties and panty hose with cotton crotches.

Wash regularly, and dry thoroughly. Use your blow dryer on a low, cool setting to help dry your genital area.

Always wipe from front to back after using the restroom.

Shower immediately after you swim, and dry thoroughly. Change out of wet swimsuits or other damp clothes as soon as you can.

Get plenty of rest to make it easier for your body to fight infections.

When should I contact my doctor?

If you are experiencing the symptoms described in this article, you should call your doctor now. Yeast infections symptoms can be similar to other infections and STD’s. Proper diagnosis every time you think you may have a yeast infection is vital for the most effective, immediate treatment, or your condition may worsen.

If you see no improvement within three days, or the symptoms worsen or come back after treatment, you should contact your health care provider again.

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